Why do ETS only Utilize Tier One Operators for VIP Protection?

Former Special Forces (SF) operators are a natural fit for global executive protection. Formed from the core SF and Elite units such as SAS, Delta, SBS, SEALs, SRR, MI5, MI6, CIA, certain FBI groups, BOPE, DSGE and GIGN, they share the following characteristics and skillsets:

Ability to operate under high stress

Ability to operate with minimal support

Proven ability to work in close-knit teams with or without a formal hierarchy

Mutual respect for and regular interaction with other tier-one law enforcement and other agencies within their network of security professionals

Experience operating against the high-level terrorism, criminal and espionage targets

VIP Protection – Value and Skills

Operators cost millions of dollars to train but their true value comes from years of real-world assignments that shape and sharpen their skills, networks, and instincts. Their proven unique experience facilitating secure travel and lifestyle in all environments without fanfare is their understated asset. VIPs chaperoned by world-class tier one operators can safely and efficiently move on the foreign turf while remaining under the radar. Low profile, discreet and respectful, the former Special Forces operator is a proven and powerful enabler. A conscientious operator able to read the environment and quietly get the job done is an invaluable part of a VIP’s team.

VIP Security – Protection of Reputation as well as Physical Security

As seen repeatedly in the celebrity and corporate worlds, unprofessional personal security can inflict long-lasting reputational harm, or worse. There are multiple untold horror stories of VIP security gone wrong including personal security operators and drivers getting lost on the way to meetings, driving through high-risk environments, and having their VIPs attacked. There are examples of personal security negligently discharging firearms, crashing vehicles, and losing track of their protectee. Even less extreme failures have a serious negative impact on business effectiveness, brand reputation, and the personal image of the senior executive. Far too often those most in need of high-level security make the mistake of saving on cost in favor of ‘large, imposing bodyguards’ yet rarely consider if these persons have the training and ability to react.

Executive Protection – Experience is Key

Some Executive Protection businesses, even the largest ones, normally recruit from a pool of civilians, or minimally trained ex-armed forces willing to ‘train’ and accept low wages to become part of the ‘circuit’. These companies celebrate and laud their training programs, yet you can’t teach the skillsets and real-world experience of tier-one professionals in two weeks. Reaction instincts, and covert operations skills under high levels of risk and stress, simply can’t be developed in a hurry.

This is why ETS only uses Tier One personnel from its personal networks, only selecting personnel from the most elite units. It is only through this system that we can guarantee our clients the very best level of service.